Ramirez de la Piscina 'Reserva' Tempranillo, Rioja, Spain

"Legacy in a Glass: The Ramirez de la Piscina Reserva"

History and Pedigree:

Ramirez de la Piscina Reserva, a beacon of Rioja's vinicultural excellence, carries the name of an ancient aristocratic family tied to the medieval traditions surrounding the Romanesque Church of Santa María de la Piscina. Founded on the heritage of Julio Ramírez de la Piscina, who continued his parents' legacy of vine cultivation and traditional Rioja wine production in the early 1940s, the winery has since evolved into a symbol of quality and tradition. Through direct marketing in Bilbao and the eventual establishment of Bodegas Ramirez, the family's wines have reached international acclaim, reflecting a steadfast commitment to excellence.

Production Highlights:

The meticulous vinification process starts with hand-picked Tempranillo grapes from vines at least 30 years old, rooted in the clay and limestone soils of Ábalos and San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Rioja Alta. The winery's modern techniques, including careful sorting, destemming, and temperature-controlled fermentation, ensure the preservation of the wine's complex character. Ageing for 18 months in a blend of American and French oak barrels, followed by natural fining and settling, bestows upon the wine a harmonious balance between fruit and oak, culminating in a minimum of 24 months of bottle aging in underground cellars.

Product Details:

• Region: Rioja, Spain
• Grape Variety: 100% Tempranillo
• Soil: Clay and Limestone
• Ageing: 18 months in oak barrels, 24+ months in bottle
• ABV: 14.5%
• Serving Temperature: 64ºF

Sensory Perception:

This Reserva presents a dark garnet hue, unveiling a bouquet rich with pomegranate, dark plum, mocha, and a whisper of dried kitchen herbs. The palate is embraced by durable tannins, unfolding layers of purple fig, black cherry, dark chocolate, and floral undertones, culminating in a finish marked by violet and ripe cherry notes. The critic's acclaim, a 93/100 from Wine Enthusiast, underscores its distinguished profile and complexity.

Pairings and Occasions:

The robust structure and depth of the Ramirez de la Piscina Reserva make it an ideal companion to various dishes. From the savory layers of a Greek lamb kreatopita to the rich textures of Western rump steak and French fillet steak with Café de Paris butter, this wine enhances each meal with its complexity. A cheese course featuring Spanish Manchego allows for a harmonious conclusion, showcasing the wine's versatility. Recommended to be decanted and oxygenated before serving, this Reserva is a celebration of Rioja's winemaking legacy, perfect for both special occasions and intimate gatherings, where its story and flavors can be savored and appreciated.